Crepe Myrtle Transplant Shock: Establishment Period Management in Texas

Newly planted crepe myrtles (from construction site) in Texas developed brown crispy leaf margins and leaf drop despite sun and water. Tiny black spots on brown areas noted later.

Expert Diagnosis

Transplant shock—energy diverted to root production. Scrape test confirms life: green under bark = alive.

Care Protocol

• Mulch 3 inches organic (not against trunk)
• Water weekly unless rain
• NO fertilizer first year (burns new roots)
• Wait until spring for improvement
• Black spots = minor leaf spot disease, not health threat
• Prune only dead branches next spring

Follow-Up Confirmation

Green under bark confirmed. Tree will recover next spring. Spots are cosmetic only. Pruning timing: spring after leaf-out distinguishes live/dead wood.